Entertainment critics play an important role in shaping our cultural conversation. From film and TV reviews to music criticism and book reviews, their opinions can influence what we watch, listen to, and read. But how do they go about their work? What is their process for evaluating and analyzing creative works, and what motivates them to do what they do? We spoke with several entertainment critics to get an inside look at their world.
One common thread that emerged from our conversations was the importance of objectivity. Many critics strive to approach their work with a critical eye and an open mind, regardless of their personal biases or preferences. As Alyssa Rosenberg, a culture critic for The Washington Post, told us, “It’s important to be able to separate your personal feelings from your critical analysis. You have to be able to recognize when something is well-made, even if it’s not to your taste.”
Another key aspect of the job is staying up-to-date on current trends and cultural movements. This requires a lot of reading, watching, and listening, as well as engaging with other critics and fans online. As Eric Deggans, a TV critic for NPR, explained, “You have to be immersed in the culture you’re covering. You have to be watching the shows and reading the books and listening to the music that people are talking about, so that you can add your voice to the conversation.”
Of course, there are also practical considerations that come into play. Many critics work on tight deadlines, which means they need to be able to write quickly and efficiently without sacrificing quality. They also need to be able to balance their workload and manage their time effectively. As Inkoo Kang, a film critic for The Hollywood Reporter, told us, “It’s a lot of work, and you have to be able to juggle multiple assignments at once. But if you’re passionate about it, it’s worth it.”
Perhaps most importantly, however, entertainment critics are driven by a love of their craft. They are passionate about the arts and the role they play in our society, and they see their work as a way of contributing to the cultural conversation. As Justin Chang, a film critic for the Los Angeles Times, put it, “There’s something incredibly rewarding about being able to articulate your thoughts and feelings about a work of art, and to share that with other people. It’s a way of making sense of the world around us, and of connecting with others who feel the same way.”
In conclusion, entertainment critics are an essential part of our cultural landscape, providing us with insights and perspectives on the creative works that shape our lives. While their work can be challenging and demanding, it is also deeply rewarding for those who are passionate about it. So the next time you read a film review or a book review, take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication that goes into it.
